US Tariffs on Indian Goods Come into Effect
The United States has imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, bringing the total levies to 50%, effective Wednesday, August 27, 2025. This move is primarily attributed to India's continued purchases of Russian oil. The decision has drawn criticism from Indian political figures, with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge terming it a result of the Modi government's "superficial" foreign policy, predicting "huge job losses" and an estimated ā¹2.17 lakh crore loss across 10 sectors. In response, the Indian government is promoting a 'Swadeshi' mantra and a 'vocal for local' campaign to reduce reliance on exports and encourage domestic consumption. The Reserve Bank of India Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, has also stated the central bank's readiness to support sectors adversely affected by the tariffs. India plans dedicated outreach programs in 40 countries, including the U.K., Japan, and South Korea, to boost textile exports.
Landslides and Floods Devastate Jammu and Kashmir
Torrential rains have wreaked havoc across Jammu and Kashmir, leading to severe flooding and deadly landslides. A major landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine on Tuesday, August 26, resulted in the deaths of at least 30 pilgrims, with rescue operations actively underway. Thousands of people have been evacuated from low-lying flooded areas, and telecommunication services have been significantly disrupted due to damaged optical fiber networks. The Tawi river in Jammu has crossed the danger mark, prompting flood alerts in the region.
India Bids for 2030 Commonwealth Games
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officially approved India's bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Ahmedabad has been proposed as the "ideal" venue, lauded for its "world-class stadiums, cutting-edge training facilities, and a passionate sporting culture."
Key Judicial Appointments and Transfers
The Supreme Court is set to welcome two new judges: Justice Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, and Justice Vipul Pancholi, Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. Additionally, the Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the reshuffling and transfer of 14 judges across nine State High Courts, marking the second such significant move under Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai.
Maruti Suzuki Launches First Global Electric Vehicle
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off Maruti Suzuki's first global electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, from Hansalpur, Gujarat. This 'made-in-India' car is slated for export to more than 100 countries, including Japan.
India to Host Chess World Cup 2025
India will host the Chess World Cup in Goa in 2025, marking the prestigious tournament's return to the country after a 23-year hiatus.
Other Notable Developments
The ten-day Ganesh festival commenced on August 27, 2025, with traditional fervor and devotion across various states. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin joined the 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, asserting the INDIA bloc's confidence in winning the Bihar assembly polls if elections are conducted fairly and criticizing the deletion of voters' names. West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose removed Professor Pabitra Chattopadhyay from the post of vice-chancellor of the University of Gour Banga due to dereliction of duty and corruption charges. The CBSE has issued important notices to schools regarding the 2026 Board exams, introducing a two-board examination policy for Class 10. An FIR was filed against actors Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in Rajasthan over a 'faulty car' they endorsed. Prime Minister Modi's two-day visit to Assam has been rescheduled to September 13-14.